Introduction: As a hospital with high patient volume and staffing, Bellevue is particularly susceptible to higher transmission rates. Bellevue stands as one of the largest hospitals in the United States, with over 800 inpatient beds. Emergency room visits are, therefore, higher than in most other hospitals. Transmission potential is also amplified by the fact that New York City is the most populated city in the United States, often contributing to overcrowding in both public spaces and living environments. Its role as a transit hub and port of entry increases its risk of imported cases, and Bellevue’s location in Kips Bay, New York City, puts the hospital at a uniquely vulnerable position for receiving patients who may have been exposed. This combination makes Bellevue a critical frontline institution in the face of an infectious disease outbreak, and thus necessitates an actionable plan around a potential EVD outbreak.
Continue reading “Mariana Braga, Sierra Nasir, and Johnny Quinones’ Disaster Plan: Bellevue Emergency Response Plan for Ebola Outbreak in the Emergency Room”Berkeley Sanchez, Shivani Shenoy, and Benjamin Tamarin’s Disaster Plan: Avian Influenza Outbreak Plan for Cali Hope Urgent Care Clinic
Introduction: CDC reports of the H5N1 cases over the years have been largely isolated in 5 states: California, Washington, Colorado, Texas, and Wyoming. In counties across California, cases of avian influenza have been reported, requiring a specialized response plan. The network of Cali Hope Urgent Care Clinic was chosen because of its patient reach and proximity to the epicenter. As an urgent care clinic, it is the best fit to detect and treat cases of avian influenza in humans as and when they arise and help the population in need.
Continue reading “Berkeley Sanchez, Shivani Shenoy, and Benjamin Tamarin’s Disaster Plan: Avian Influenza Outbreak Plan for Cali Hope Urgent Care Clinic”Kimari A. McCoy, Desere Thompson, and DJ Windsor’s Disaster Plan: Active Shooter Preparation at the Dallas Pediatric Cardiac Care Center
Introduction: Violence against healthcare facilities is on the rise because they are emotionally charged environments, with open access to the public, and a perceived lack of security. Because of their open layouts, family-centered design (such as play areas and group therapy rooms), and the presence of young, vulnerable people, pediatric care facilities may be seen as “soft targets.” Staff members must protect patients, cooperate with emergency responders, secure locations quickly, and communicate properly with children and families in such a situation.
Continue reading “Kimari A. McCoy, Desere Thompson, and DJ Windsor’s Disaster Plan: Active Shooter Preparation at the Dallas Pediatric Cardiac Care Center”